Circulation pump assembly for a heating and/or cooling system

ABSTRACT

A circulation pump assembly for a heating and/or cooling system includes an electric drive motor ( 108 ) and a connected pump housing ( 106 ) in which at least one impeller ( 118 ) is situated and which comprises a first inlet ( 112 ) and a first outlet ( 114 ). The pump housing ( 106 ) includes a second inlet ( 122 ) which is connected in an inside of the pump housing ( 106 ) at a mixing point ( 130 ) to the first inlet ( 112 ). A regulating valve ( 134 ), which is designed for regulating the mixing ratio of two flows mixing at the mixing point ( 130 ), as well as a control device, which controls the regulating valve ( 134 ) for regulating the mixing ration, are arranged in the pump housing ( 106 ). A hydraulic manifold is provided with such a circulation pump assembly.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of priority under 35 U.S.C. §119 ofEuropean Patent Application EP 13 192 026.6 filed Nov. 7, 2013, theentire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The invention relates to a circulation pump assembly for a heatingand/or cooling system, with an electric drive motor and a pump housingwhich is connected to this drive motor and in which at least oneimpeller is situated and which pump housing comprises a first inlet anda first outlet.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Hydraulic heating and/or cooling systems usually use a liquid heattransfer medium or a fluid which is circulated in a pipe conduit system.As a rule, an electrically driven circulation pump assembly is providedfor this.

Moreover, it is known to apply mixing devices in such heating and/orcooling systems, in which mixing devices two fluid flows of a differenttemperature are mixed, in order to set the desired temperature.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

It is an object of the invention, to improve a circulation pump assemblyto the extent that a more simple construction of a heating and/orcooling system with a mixing device is possible.

The circulation pump assembly according to the invention is provided fora heating and/or cooling system and comprises at least one electricaldrive motor. This electric drive motor is preferably designed as acanned motor, i.e. as a wet-running electrical drive motor. The drivemotor is preferably arranged in a motor housing or stator housing and isconnected to a pump housing. I.e. the stator housing is connected to thepump housing, wherein in the case of a wet-running electrical drivemotor, preferably the can is sealed with respect to the pump housing, inthe inside of the drive motor. The necessary flow paths through the pumpare formed in the pump housing and in particular at least one impellerrotatingly driven by the drive motor is situated in the pump housing.I.e. the pump housing comprises a receiving space, in which the impellerrotates. This receiving space is connected via a suction port to atleast one first inlet which is formed in the pump housing. Moreover, thereceiving space at the exit side or pressure side is connected to atleast one first outlet which is provided in the pump housing. The firstinlet and the first outlet are provided, in order to connect the pumphousing to external components, for example to connecting pipe conduits.

According to the invention, the pump housing comprises a second inletwhich in the inside of the pump housing at a mixing point is connectedto the first inlet. Thus two fluid flows, specifically from the firstand the second inlet, can be mixed at the mixing point. The part of thepump housing, in which the flow paths from the first and the secondinlet to the mixing point are formed, is preferably designed of onepiece, in particular of plastic. Further preferably, this housing part,in which the flow paths from the first and the second inlet to themixing point are formed, are likewise designed as one piece with thehousing part which delimits the flow path from the mixing point to thereceiving space, in which the impeller rotates.

The flow path from the receiving space, in which the impeller rotates,to the at least one first outlet is preferably arranged in a housingpart which is designed as one piece with the previously mentionedhousing parts of the pump assembly, in particular of plastic.

Moreover, at least one regulating valve or mixing valve is arranged inthe pump housing and is designed in a manner such that it can regulate amixing ratio of two flows mixing at the mixing point. For this, theregulating valve can be situated in the flow path from one of the inletsto the mixing point, in order to be able to directly regulate the fluidflow to the mixing point. In a closed system, the regulating valve canhowever also be situated at another location, in order to indirectlyinfluence the flow to the mixing point. It can for example be situatedin a flow path bypassing the mixing point, wherein by way of regulatingthe flow in the flow path bypassing the mixing point, the share which isnot led through this flow path but via the mixing point, issimultaneously regulated. The regulating valve is preferably appliedinto a receiver in the pump housing, wherein the receiver is preferablydesigned as one piece with the housing parts which define the flow pathsfrom the inlets to the mixing point and from the mixing point to theimpeller as well as from the impeller to the outlet. Preferably, theregulating valve is removable from the receiver, for example in order tobe able to remove it for maintenance purposes. The pump housing cancomprise further openings or receivers, which are closed by closureelements or inserted components. These, for example, can be openings orreceivers for sensors, bleed valves or likewise.

Furthermore, the circulation pump assembly comprises a control devicewhich is designed thereto to setting up the regulating valve forregulating the mixing ratio.

The integration of a mixing device into the pump housing has theadvantage that the number of necessary components for heating and/orcooling systems is reduced, so that the assembly is simplified.Moreover, a compact construction is achieved, which renders it possibleto integrate the circulation pump with the mixing device into othercomponents of a heating and/or cooling system in a simple manner.

According to a first possible embodiment, the regulating valve isarranged in a first flow path from the first inlet to the mixing pointfor regulating the flow through this flow path. The impeller of the pumppreferably lies downstream of the mixing point, so that the circulationpump sucks fluid from the mixing point. If the circulation pump assemblyor its impeller delivers a constant delivery flow and the flow in theflow path from the first inlet to the mixing point reduces for example,the circulation pump assembly accordingly sucks a higher share of fluidthrough the flow path from the second inlet to the mixing point. In thismanner, the mixing ratio of two different thermally regulated liquidscan be changed by way of changing the flow in only one of the flow pathsleading to the mixing point.

According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the pump housingcomprises a second outlet which is connected via a channel in the insideof the pump housing to the second inlet. This channel or flow paththereby does not lead via the impeller of the circulation pump, but in acircuit of a heating and/or cooling system preferably forms a return,from which fluid is led to the mixing point, whereas the first inlet ofthe pump housing is envisaged for connection to an external fluid supplyfrom a heat source or cold source. In this manner, fluid from a fluidsupply is mixed with returning fluid from the return, at the mixingpoint. In the case of a heating system, the fluid from the returnusually has a lower temperature than the fluid fed from a heat sourcethrough the first inlet. Conversely, in a cooling system, usually thefluid from the return usually has a higher temperature than the fluidfed from a cold source through the first inlet. The housing part whichdefines the channel in the inside of the pump housing from the secondinlet to the second outlet, is preferably likewise designed as one piecewith the housing parts which are described above and which define theremaining flow paths through the pump housing. The assembly ofindividual parts and the sealing of individual parts are avoided in thismanner, since all essential flow paths can be formed in a housing whichis manufactured in a single-pieced manner, preferably of plastic.

According to a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention, theregulating valve for regulating the flow is arranged in the channelbetween the second inlet and the second outlet, downstream of aconnection of this channel to the mixing point. As described, the secondoutlet preferably serves for the connection with a return to a heatingsource or cold source, whereas the first inlet serves for connection toa feed from a heat source or cold source. The first outlet of the pumpassembly serves for the connection of at least one load circuit, whereasthe second inlet serves for the connection of the return of this atleast one load circuit. With the described arrangement of the regulatingvalve in the channel from the second inlet to the second outletdownstream of the connection to the mixing point, the flow share flowingback to the heat source or to the cold source is thus regulated via theregulating valve. If this flow share is reduced, accordingly a highershare from the return is led from the second inlet to the mixing point.If the flow away through the second outlet is increased, then this partof the flow which is led to the mixing point accordingly reduces.

According to a further possible embodiment of the invention, theregulating valve or mixing valve can be designed as a three-way valvewhich is arranged at the mixing point. Thus the valve can directlysetting up the mixing ratio between two entries to one exit by way ofadjusting one valve element.

As described, the pump housing is preferably manufactured in asingle-piece manner, preferably of plastic. Thereby, particularlypreferably, the complete pump housing with the exception of insertedcomponents such as valves or sensors and, as the case may be, necessaryclosure elements of openings, is designed as one piece as a componentwhich preferably defines all necessary flow paths between the firstinlet, second inlet and first outlet, and, as the case may be the secondoutlet, in its interior. Moreover, this pump housing comprises areceiving space for at least one impeller.

The regulating valve is preferably a motorically driven valve. Inparticular, it is the case of a valve whose opening degree ischangeable, in particular is proportionally changeable. This for examplecan be effected via a drive motor designed as a stepper motor. Furtherpreferably, the regulating valve can also be completely closed via thedrive.

Usefully, a control device is provided which is electrically connectedto the regulating valve for its activation. I.e. the control devicepreferably sets the opening degree of the regulating valve and activatesthis such that it sets the desired opening degree. Thereby, the controldevice can regulate the opening degree preferably on the basis of adetected temperature signal, in order to set a desired feed temperaturedownstream of the mixing point, by way of the mixing of the flows at themixing point.

The control device is preferably arranged in an electronics housing,wherein the electronics housing further preferably is arranged on thedrive motor of the pump housing. Thereby, the electronics housing can beintegrated into a stator housing or motor housing of the drive motor orbe formed by the stator housing or motor housing. Alternatively, theelectronics housing can be applied as a separate housing onto the outerside of the motor housing or stator housing of the drive motor. Furtherpreferably, the electronic components for the activation or regulationof the drive motor of the circulation pump assembly are arranged in thiselectronics housing. This design has the advantage that all electroniccomponents, which are necessary for the regulation or control of thedrive motor and of the regulating valve of the mixing device, can beintegrated into an electronics housing of the circulation pump assembly.

Further preferably, the control device is signal-connected to at leastone temperature sensor which is preferably arranged on a flow path inthe inside of the pump housing. Thus the temperature sensor can detectthe temperature of the fluid in this flow path. The control device canset the mixing ratio on the basis of the detected temperature, by way ofactivating the regulating valve, in order to achieve a desiredtemperature as a feed temperature. Preferably, the temperature sensor istherefore situated on a flow path downstream of the mixing point, sothat it detects the temperature of the mixed fluid.

According to a particular embodiment of the invention, the pump housingfurthermore on a housing side is designed for the connection, i.e.preferably direct connection to a hydraulic manifold. This permits ahydraulic manifold to be integrated with the circulation pump into aconstruction unit, wherein the manifold is arranged directly adjacentthe circulation pump. In this manner, a compact construction with asimple assembly is made possible, since the number of necessary externalpipe connections is minimized. The hydraulic manifold preferably servesfor being able to connect several load circuits to the exit side of thecirculation pump, i.e. to its first outlet and second inlet. Thereby, afeed conduit in the hydraulic manifold and through which the fluid isfed to the entries of the several load circuits, is connected to thefirst outlet of the pump housing, whereas the return conduit in thehydraulic manifold is connected to the second inlet of pump assembly.The exits of several load circuits are connected to the return conduitin the hydraulic manifold via suitable connections.

Thus preferably, the second inlet as well as the first outlet of thepump housing is situated on the housing side which is designed forconnection to the hydraulic manifold. The second inlet as well as thefirst outlet is thereby preferably designed as hydraulic couplings, inparticular plug-in couplings, which can engage directly withcorresponding couplings on the hydraulic manifold, in order to permit ahydraulic connection between the second inlet and a return conduit inthe hydraulic manifold and between the first outlet and a feed conduitin the hydraulic manifold.

The subject matter of the invention, apart from the previously describedcirculation pump assembly, is also a hydraulic manifold with such acirculation pump assembly, as has been previously described. Thehydraulic manifold comprises at least one load module which is connectedto the pump housing of the circulation pump assembly. Thereby, the loadmodule in its inside comprises a section of the feed conduit and/or asection of the return conduit, wherein the section of the feed conduitis connected to the first outlet of the pump housing and comprises atleast one feed connection, whereas the section of the return conduit isconnected to the second inlet of the pump housing and comprises at leastone return connection. A load circuit is connected to the feedconnection and the return connection. Thus fluid delivered via the firstoutlet of the pump housing can be led to the entry of a load circuitconnected on the feed connection, and this fluid then flows from theexit of the load circuit via the return connection back into the secondentry of the pump housing. The preceding description is referred to withregard to the further design of the circulation pump assembly.

The at least one load module is preferably releasably connected to thepump housing. This permits a simple assembly by way of a modularconstruction, and a simple dismantling of the construction unit formaintenance and/or repair purposes.

Further preferably, the load module is connected at a first longitudinalend to the pump housing and at a second distant longitudinal end to afurther load module, preferably in a releasable manner. In this manner,several load modules can be connected to one another and rowed onto oneanother in the longitudinal direction. Thereby, the longitudinaldirection is essentially the direction, in which the sections of thefeed conduit and of the return conduit and which are defined in the loadmodules extend. In this manner, a desired number of load modules can berowed on one another and this number depends on the number of loadcircuits to be supplied, wherein preferably a load module is providedfor each load circuit. Thus a modularly adaptable hydraulic manifold iscreated. Hydraulic couplings are formed between the load modules andcorrespond to the hydraulic coupling between the pump housing and thefirst adjacent load module, so that all load modules can be designedequally.

Preferably, a regulating device for regulating the flow through a loadcircuit connected to the feed connection and to the return connection isarranged in the at least one load module. The regulating device canpreferably be a regulating valve, in particular an electromotoricallydriven regulating valve in the form of a proportional valve.Alternatively, in some other way powered control valve can be used, forexample with thermo-electric drive. Thereby, the regulating valve can bedesigned such that it can also be completely closed, in order tocompletely close, i.e. switch off the load circuit. The flow regulationby way of a regulating device in each load module has the advantage thatthe flow or volume flow can be individually set for each load circuitand be changed in operation. Thus the flow can be adapted to the currentdemands, in particular to the energy requirement of the load circuit.Preferably, the regulating device is arranged in a flow path from thereturn connection to the section of the return conduit in the inside ofthe load module. It could however also be suitably arranged in the flowpath between the section of the feed conduit and the feed connection.

A control device for the activation of the regulating devices of theload modules is further preferably provided. Particularly preferably, amanifold control device which is signal-connected to the at least oneregulating device in the at least one load module, preferably to theregulating devices of several load modules for their activation, isarranged in the circulation pump assembly, preferably in an electronicshousing arranged on the drive motor. I.e. there is a central controldevice in the form of a manifold control device which activates theregulating devices of the individual load modules, in order to provide aflow regulation for the load circuits. The manifold control device ispreferably integrated into the electronics housing on the drive motor ofthe circulation pump assembly as is the case with the control devicesdescribed above, so that only a single electronics housing needs to beprovided.

Further preferably, an electric coupling is provided between the loadmodule and the pump hosing and preferably between the load module and afurther load module. An electrical connection for the energy supply andpreferably also for signal transmission from the manifold control devicearranged in the circulation pump assembly to the regulating devices inthe load modules are created via this coupling. In the case that amultitude of load modules is provided, electrical connections in theform of electrical couplings, in particular plug-in couplings arelikewise formed between these load modules, via which couplings theregulating devices of the further load modules are provided with energyand are activated.

The invention is hereinafter described by way of example and by way ofthe attached figures. The various features of novelty which characterizethe invention are pointed out with particularity in the claims annexedto and forming a part of this disclosure. For a better understanding ofthe invention, its operating advantages and specific objects attained byits uses, reference is made to the accompanying drawings and descriptivematter in which preferred embodiments of the invention are illustrated.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a schematic view showing a hydraulic manifold according to theinvention, in the non-assembled condition;

FIG. 2 is a schematic view showing the hydraulic manifold according toFIG. 1, in the assembled condition;

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a main module of the hydraulic manifoldaccording to the invention;

FIG. 4 is a schematic view of a load module of the hydraulic manifoldaccording to the invention;

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the hydraulic manifold with the mainmodule according to FIG. 3 and the load module according to FIG. 4; and

FIG. 6 is a plan view of the hydraulic manifold according to FIG. 5.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Referring to the drawings, the hydraulic manifold shown in the FIGS. 1-6is constructed in a modular manner and consists of essentially of twotypes of modules, of a main module 102 as well as of several loadmodules 104. The main module 102 is formed essentially by a pumpassembly. As is shown in FIG. 3, the pump assembly comprises a pumphousing 106 with a stator housing 108 which is arranged thereon. Thenecessary flow paths as well as a receiving space 120 for an impeller118 are formed in the pump housing 106. The impeller 118 is driven by anelectrical drive motor which is arranged in the motor housing or statorhousing 108. Thereby, the electrical drive motor is preferably designedas a wet-running motor. An electronics housing 110, in which amongstother things the electronic components for the control or regulation ofthe electrical drive motor in the stator housing 108 are accommodated,is arranged on the outer side of the stator housing 108 at the axialend.

The circulation pump assembly shown in FIG. 3 forms the main module 102.With this circulation pump assembly, apart from the impeller, thecomponents of a mixing device, whose function is described by way ofFIGS. 1 and 2, are accommodated in the pump housing 106, next to theimpeller. The pump housing comprises a first inlet 112 as well as afirst outlet 114. The circulation pump with the impeller 118 lies in afirst flow path 116 between the first inlet 112 and the first outlet114. The impeller 118 lies in a receiving space 120 in the inside of thepump housing 106 which is schematically represented in the FIGS. 1 and 2as a dashed line. The impeller 118, driven by the drive motor, deliversa fluid functioning as a heat transfer medium, i.e. a liquid, from thefirst inlet 112 to the first outlet 114.

The pump housing 106 moreover comprises a second inlet 122 as well as asecond outlet 124. The second inlet 122 is connected to the secondoutlet 124 via a channel 126 which forms a flow path in the inside ofthe pump housing 106. The channel 126 does not lead through the impeller118, but extends separately in the pump housing 106. The channel 126 isconnected via a connection 128 to a mixing region or mixing point 130 inthe flow path 116. The fluid flows from the first inlet 112 and thesecond inlet 122 are mixed at the mixing point 130. Since the impeller118 is situated downstream of the mixing point 130, it sucks fluid fromthe first inlet 112 as well as from the channel 126 via the connection128 and thus from the second inlet 122. A check valve 132 is arranged inthe connection 128 and permits a flow only in the direction from thechannel 126 to the mixing point 130.

A regulating valve 134 is arranged in the flow path from the first inlet112 to the mixing point 130. This is settable in its opening degree viaan electrical drive motor 136. The regulating valve 134 functions as amixing valve, in order to be able to set the mixing ratio of the twomentioned flows at the mixing point 130. No flow can be effected fromthe first inlet 112 to the mixing point 130 if the regulating valve 134is closed, and the circulation pump via its impeller 118 sucks fluidexclusively via the second inlet 122 through the channel 126 and theconnection 128. If the regulating valve 134 is opened, a part of theflow through the pump assembly is sucked through the first inlet 112, sothat a flow from the first inlet 112 is mixed with a flow from thesecond inlet 122, in the mixing point 130. The mixing ratio changesdepending on the opening degree of the regulating valve 134. If now thefirst inlet 112 is connected to a feed of a heating system, throughwhich hot fluid is fed, and the second inlet 122 is connected to areturn of at least one load circuit, colder fluid is then fed throughthe second inlet 122 and admixed. Thus, by way of admixing the colderfluid from the second inlet 122 to the warmer fluid from the first inlet112, it is thus possible to reduce the feed temperature of the fluidexiting from the first outlet 114 downstream of the mixing point 130,with respect to the temperature of the fluid entering into the firstinlet 112. The actually reached feed temperature at the first outlet 114is detected via a temperature sensor 138 which is likewise integratedinto the circulation pump assembly or its pump housing 106. It is to beunderstood that the regulating valve 134 could also be arranged in acorresponding manner between the second outlet 124 and the branching ofthe connection 128 from the channel 126, instead of in the flow pathbetween the first inlet 112 and the mixing point 130.

In the case that the shown hydraulic manifold is used for a coolingsystem, a cold fluid can be fed through the first inlet 112, whilstwarmer fluid is fed via the second inlet 22 from the return of the loadcircuit. Thus, by way of the admixing of this warmer fluid at the mixingpoint 130, it is possible to increase the feed temperature of the fedcold fluid. Here too, the temperature can be set to the desiredtemperature by way of setting the mixing ratio.

The regulation or control of this mixing device, i.e. the temperatureregulation, is assumed by a control device 140 which is arranged in theelectronics housing 110 of the circulation pump assembly 102. Thecontrol device 140 activates the motor 136 of the regulating valve 134such that this assumes an opening degree which is set by the controldevice 140. For this, the motor 136 of the regulating valve 134 isconnected to the control device 140 via a signal connection 142 whichcan be designed for example as a data bus. The temperature sensor 138 isalso connected to the control device 140 via a signal connection 144.Thus, the control device 140 by way of setting the regulating valve 134can regulate the admixing of the fluid from the return at the mixingpoint 130 and thus set a desired feed temperature, wherein acorresponding feedback to control device 140 is effected via thetemperature sensor 138, and this permits a temperature regulation.

All the described hydraulic components of the mixing device which areshown in the FIGS. 1 and 2, as well as the impeller 118 of thecirculation pump assembly are arranged in the pump housing 106. The pumphousing 106 with all its parts, in which the described flow paths areformed, is preferably manufactured as one piece of plastic. Thus, a verysimple connection between the described mixing device and the componentsof the circulation pump can be achieved, since all components areintegrated into a single-piece housing 106. A very compact constructionwith as simultaneously simple assembly is achieved by way of this.Additionally, a bleed valve 146 which is not shown in the FIGS. 1 and 2,is arranged in the pump housing 106.

The previously described mixing device in the example of a hydraulicmanifold which is shown here, serves as a mixing device for a floorheating. The hydraulic manifold is designed as a manifold for a floorheating installation. The mixing device thus serves for reducing thetemperature of a heating medium to the temperature necessary for thefloor heating. This is effected by way admixing the colder fluid fromthe return, as has been previously described.

The hydraulic manifold shown here, which is provided for use as amanifold for a floor heating system, is moreover constructed in amodular manner. The first outlet 114 and also the second inlet 122 aredesigned as hydraulic couplings at one side 146 of the main module 102,i.e. of the circulation pump assembly 102, into which couplings a feedcoupling 148 as well as a return coupling 150 of the load module 104arranged adjacently the main module 102 engage. A section of a feedconduit 152 and also a section of the return conduit 154 are formed inthe load module 104. The section of the feed conduit 152 connects thefirst feed coupling 148 to a second feed coupling 156 which is situatedat the opposite longitudinal end of the load module 104. Accordingly,the section of the return conduit 154 connects the first return coupling150 to a second return coupling 158 situated at the oppositelongitudinal end of the load module 104. The first feed coupling 148 aswell as the first return conduit 150 are designed as male coupling partswhich can engage into the second feed coupling 156 as well as secondreturn coupling 158 which are designed as a female coupling parts, of anadjacent load module 104, in order to form a fluid-leading connectionbetween sections 152 of the feed conduit which are adjacent one another,as well as sections of the return conduit 154 which are adjacent oneanother. The first outlet 114 on the main module 102 in a mannercorresponding to the second feed coupling 156 is designed as a femalecoupling, so that the first feed coupling 148 of the adjacent loadmodule 104 can come into fluid-leading connection with the first outlet114. Accordingly, the second inlet 122 is likewise designed as a femalehydraulic coupling, whose design corresponds to that of the secondreturn coupling 158, so that the first return coupling 150 of theadjacent load module 104 can engage with the second inlet 122 forcreating a hydraulic connection.

The section of the feed conduit 152 of each load module comprises a feedconnection 160. Moreover, in each load module, the section of the returnconduit 154 comprises a return connection 162. The entry of a loadcircuit is connected on the feed connection 160 of each load module 104,and the exit of the associated load circuit is connected onto the returnconnection 162 of each load module 104. The load circuits here in eachcase form individual circuits of a floor heating installation, whereineach circuit preferably heats one room.

Moreover, a regulating valve 164 is arranged in each load module 104,between the return connection 162 and the section of the return conduit154 in the flow path. Each regulating valve 162 comprises an electricdrive motor 166, by way of which the associated regulating valve 164 isadjustable in its opening degree. The regulating valves 164 are moreoverdesigned such that they can be completely closed. By way of thiscomplete closure, it is possible to interrupt or switch off theconnected load circuit. If the regulating valve 164 is opened, the flowor the volume flow through the load circuit connected to the feedconnection 160 or to the return connection 162 can be regulated by wayof changing the opening degree via the drive motor 166. The flow can bevaried and be adapted to the respective operating condition, inparticular to the energy requirement of the load circuit, for each loadcircuit on operation of the installation, since such a regulating devicewith a regulating valve 164 is arranged in each load module. The drivemotors 166 are connected to the control device 140 functioning as amanifold control device, via an electric connection 168 in each loadmodule 104, said electric connection serving for the energy supply andfor data transmission. Moreover, a temperature sensor 138/170 isarranged in each case in the load modules 104, in the flow path betweenthe return connection 152 and the section 154 of the return conduit. Thetemperature sensor 170 detects the return temperature at the exit of theconnected load circuit. The temperature sensors 170 are in each caselikewise connected to the electric connection 168 which comprises orforms a data bus.

The load modules 104 each have a module control device 172 for the datatransmission or communication with the control device 140. The modulecontrol devices 172 permit an addressing of the individual load modules104 by the control device 140. The control device 140 and the modulecontrol device 172 are preferably designed for automatic coupling. Thus,the control device 140 preferably assigns an address to the modulecontrol devices 172 and thus to the associated load module 104, so thatthe control device 140 on the one hand can detect data from therespective load module 104, for example temperature values from thetemperature sensor 170, in a targeted manner and simultaneously activatethe drive motor 166 for setting the regulating valve 164, in a targetedmanner. The flow through the connected load circuit is preferably set bythe control device 140 via the regulating valve 164 in dependence on thetemperature difference between the temperature sensors 138 and 170, foreach load module 104, so that the temperature difference assumes aconstant predefined value. Electrical plug-in couplings 174 are providedbetween the individual load modules 104, for creating the electricalconnection or a data connection between the individual load modules 104.For this, corresponding parts of the electrical plug-in couplings 174are provided on opposite longitude ends of the load modules 104 which ineach case can engage with the electrical plug-in coupling 174 of anadjacent load module 104. Accordingly, an electrical plug-in coupling174 is present between the main module 102 and the adjacent load module104.

It is possible to connect a desired number of load modules 104 to themain module 102, depending on how many load circuits are to beconnected, due to the design of the electrical and hydraulic couplingsbetween the load modules 104 as well as between the load module 104 andthe main module 102. Thus, a flexible adaptation to different heating orcooling systems is possible and it is not necessary to keep availablepremanufactured manifolds in each case for certain numbers of loadcircuits. In contrast, a hydraulic manifold of the desired size can beconstructed in a very simple manner by way of putting together thecorresponding number of load modules 104, as is shown in FIG. 2. Thelast load module 104 which is away from the main module 102 is therebyclosed off by way of an end-piece 176, at its free end i.e. its endwhich is away from the last adjacent load module 104. The end-piece 176in particular serves for the closure of the second feed coupling 156 aswell as of the second return coupling 158 at the end, so that thesection of the feed conduit 152 and the section of the return conduit154 at the free end are sealed to the outside. In the example shown inFIG. 6, the end-piece 176 moreover yet has a bleed valve 178 as well asa connection 180 which is connected to the return conduit 154 and forexample can be used for filling or rinsing. This connection 180 isclosed in normal operation. Six load modules 104 for six load circuitsare joined onto the main module 102 in the examples shown in the FIGS. 5and 6.

A mechanical connection between the load modules 104 as well as betweenthe first load module 104 and the main load module 102 is created, apartfrom the described hydraulic and electric connections. The mechanicalconnection in this example is created by way of engagement of thehydraulic couplings into one another, i.e. of the first feed coupling148 with the second feed coupling 156 as well as of the first returncoupling 150 with the second return coupling 158. However, it is to beunderstood that here additionally locking or securing elements can beprovided, in order to create a fixed mechanical connection between theindividual modules 102, 104.

If the modules 102, 104 are joined onto one another, the sections of thefeed conduit 152 of the individual load modules 104, as is to be seen inFIG. 2, form a continuous feed conduit 152 whilst the sections of thereturn conduit 154 form a continuous return conduit 154. The controldevice 140 forms a central manifold control device which controls orregulates the circulation pump, i.e. its drive motor 108, in particularcarries out a speed control or regulation for the drive motor 108, aswell as regulates the mixing device by way of activating the regulatingvalve 134. Moreover, the control device 140 here serves as a centralcontrol device for the regulating valves 154 in all load circuits 104.In this, as is described above, it effects a flow regulation and thusserves for switching the individual load circuits on and off. For this,the control device 140 comprises a communication interface or acommunication device 181 which permits a communication with externalroom thermostats 182, in this example via radio. Only two roomthermostats 182 are shown in FIG. 2. It is however to be understood thatpreferably a room thermostat 182 is provided for each room to bethermally regulated. A desired room temperature can be set at the roomthermostat 182. If the actual room temperature differs from the setsetpoint, the room thermostat 182 sends a signal to the communicationinterface 181 of the control device 140 which thereupon initiates theswitching-on of a load circuit associated with the room thermostat 182,by way of opening the associated regulating valve 164. If a desired roomtemperature is achieved, then the room thermostat 182 in turn sends asignal, whereupon the control device 140 via the drive motor 166 closesthe regulating valve 164 associated with this load circuit, and thusswitches off the load circuit which leads through the associated room.

Moreover, an electrical connection 184 is formed on the electronicshousing 110 and serves for the electric connection of the completehydraulic manifold and all its electrical components. The electricalconnection 184 is designed here as a plug, on which a mains lead can beconnected. Preferably, a mains part is integrated in the electronicshousing 110 and only small voltages are transmitted via the electricalconnections 168 to the load modules 104.

While specific embodiments of the invention have been shown anddescribed in detail to illustrate the application of the principles ofthe invention, it will be understood that the invention may be embodiedotherwise without departing from such principles.

APPENDIX List of Reference Numerals

-   102—main module-   104—load module-   106—pump housing-   108—stator housing-   110—electronics housing-   112—first inlet-   114—first outlet-   116—flow path-   118—impeller-   120—receiving space-   122—second inlet-   124—second outlet-   126—channel-   128—connection-   130—mixing point-   132—check valve-   134—regulating valve-   136—motor-   138—temperature sensor-   140—control device or manifold control device-   142, 144—signal connections-   146—side-   148—first feed coupling-   150—first return coupling-   152—feed conduit-   154—return conduit-   156—second feed coupling-   158—second return coupling-   160—feed connection-   162—return connection-   164—regulating valve-   166—drive motor-   168—electrical connection-   170—temperature sensor-   172—module control device-   174—electrical plug-in coupling-   176—end piece-   178—bleed valve-   180—connection-   181—communication interface-   182—room thermostat-   184—electrical connection

What is claimed is:
 1. A circulation pump assembly for a heating and/orcooling system, the circulation pump assembly comprising: an electricdrive motor; at least one impeller; a pump housing connected to thisdrive motor, the at least one impeller being situated in the pumphousing, the pump housing comprising a first inlet, an outlet and asecond inlet which is connected in an inside of the pump housing at amixing point to the first inlet; a regulating valve regulating a mixingratio of two flows mixing at the mixing point, the regulating valvebeing arranged in the pump housing; and a control device controlling theregulating valve for regulating a mixing ration.
 2. A circulation pumpassembly according to claim 1, wherein the regulating valve is arrangedin a first flow path from the first inlet to the mixing point, for theregulation of flow.
 3. A circulation pump assembly according to claim 1,wherein the pump housing comprises a second outlet which via a channelin the inside of the pump housing is connected to the second inlet.
 4. Acirculation pump assembly according to claim 3, wherein the regulatingvalve for regulating the flow is arranged in the channel between thesecond inlet and the second outlet, downstream of a connection of thechannel to the mixing point.
 5. A circulation pump assembly according toclaim 1, wherein the regulating valve is a three-way valve whicharranged in the mixing point.
 6. A circulation pump assembly accordingto claim 1, wherein the pump housing is manufactured as one piece ofplastic.
 7. A circulation pump assembly according to claim 1, whereinthe regulating valve is a motorically driven valve.
 8. A circulationpump assembly according to claim 1, further comprising an electronicshousing wherein the control device is arranged in the electronicshousing on the drive motor.
 9. A circulation pump assembly according toclaim 1, further comprising at least one temperature sensor arranged inor adjacent to a flow path in the inside of the pump housing wherein thecontrol device is signal-connected to the at least one temperaturesensor.
 10. A circulation pump assembly according to claim 1, whereinthe pump housing is formed on a housing side with a connection forconnection to a hydraulic manifold.
 11. A circulation pump assemblyaccording to claim 10, wherein the inlet as well as the first outlet ofthe pump housing are situated on a housing side with the connection forthe hydraulic manifold.
 12. A hydraulic manifold and circulation pumpassembly combination comprising: a circulation pump assembly comprising:an electric drive motor; at least one impeller; a pump housing connectedto this drive motor, the at least one impeller being situated in thepump housing, the pump housing comprising a first inlet, an outlet and asecond inlet which is connected in an inside of the pump housing at amixing point to the first inlet; a regulating valve regulating a mixingratio of two flows mixing at the mixing point, the regulating valvebeing arranged in the pump housing; and a control device controlling theregulating valve for regulating a mixing ration; at least one loadmodule connected to the pump housing, the at least one load modulecomprising a section of a feed conduit and/or a section of a returnconduit, wherein the section of the feed conduit is connected to thefirst outlet of the pump housing and comprises a feed connection and thesection of the return conduit is connected to the second inlet of thepump housing and comprises a return connection.
 13. A hydraulic manifoldaccording to claim 12, wherein the at least one load module isreleasably connected to the pump housing.
 14. A hydraulic manifoldaccording to claim 12, further comprising a further load module, whereinthe at least one load module has a first longitudinal end connectedreleasably to the pump housing, and has a distant, second longitudinalend connected releasably to the further load module.
 15. A hydraulicmanifold according to claim 12, further comprising a regulating devicefor regulating the flow through a load circuit connected to the feedconnection wherein the return connection is arranged in the at least oneload module.
 16. A hydraulic manifold according to claim 12, furthercomprising an electronics housing arranged on the drive motor whereinthe control device is a manifold control device arranged in theelectronics housing and signal-connected to the regulating device in theload module for activation thereof.
 17. A hydraulic manifold accordingto claim 12, further comprising a further load module and an electriccoupling formed between the load module and the pump housing and betweenthe load module and the further load module.